New Game Plan

Highlights from the March 2018 issue of The ACCJ Journal

By C Bryan Jones

Our March issue of The ACCJ Journal focuses on Japan’s upcoming path in sports, at work, and in entertainment. From the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games and the 2019 Rugby World Cup to efforts to relieve stress, improve the workplace, and boost tourism, there’s much change and excitement sweeping the nation.

BUILD
Tokyo has been undergoing significant urban redevelopment in recent years, and the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games—
set to be the largest in history with 33 sports and 339 events—is a driving force. With the con­struction of the Olympic Village, the Tokyo Bay waterfront is getting a lot of attention. But what does the future hold for this real estate after the Games? We talk to experts about the challenges of developing the area. Read here

COMPETE
Before the Olympics, Japan will play host to the 2019 Rugby World Cup. USA Rugby has qualified and will compete in Pool C against France, Argentina, Tonga, and powerhouse England, led by former Japan coach Eddie Jones. We explore the history of the game in the United States and the opportunities the team’s berth in the tournament may bring US businesses in Japan. Read here

CREATE
Sports isn’t the only area in which Japan is preparing to up its game. As the world’s fourth-largest movie market, the country is looking to score big in the global film indus­try. We talk to representa­tives from regional film commissions about why attracting productions is important to the local economy and how Japan can increase its appeal. Read here

RELAX
While all of this sports and entertainment is going on, most of us have to work. And getting to the office in Tokyo can be a job in itself. Recognizing that the stress imposed by overcrowded commutes could be impacting economic growth, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government has put forth a possible solution with its Jisa Biz campaign. We find out how companies are reacting, and what else employers are doing to make their teams more comfortable and productive. Read here

PREPARE
As we look to the future, there are still other changes to consider. If you are a US citizen doing business in Japan through the use of a corporation, the recent changes to US tax law may impact you in unexpected ways. The American Chamber of Commerce in Japan Taxation Committee explains what to look out for as you prepare your tax return in April. Read here